The work of our Sisters in Malawi, Africa, is one of the hundreds of ways in which Medical Mission Sisters around the world try to be a healing presence to those in need today.

Malawi, Africa, is one of the poorest countries in the world, and also one of the most heavily indebted countries. Its Catholic Church, with 7 dioceses, is known for its strong stance for democracy and the rights of the poor. The HIV/AIDS infection is very severe in Malawi, with about 1/3 of the 15-45-age group affected by the disease, along with a high number of AIDS orphans.

In the Archdiocese of Blantyre, just one full-time priest serves as hospital and prison chaplain. His workload has been tremendous. With funding support from the Medical Mission Sisters, 3 Sisters and 5 laypersons, all volunteers, were trained to give pastoral care to the sick and dying. The funds also helped to provide very needy patients with food, clothing, and transportation.

Sisters Nirmala Lopes and Pauline Yadava actively participated in the training of the pastoral caregivers. Topics covered included: the ability to help others discover meaning in experiences of suffering, grief, and loss; active listening and communication skills; understanding pastoral care and the Sacraments; how to treat patients and their families with dignity, justice, and respect; and confidentiality issues.

As the trained volunteers began making their visits, the chaplain's workload was lightened. More patients were helped through times of grief and suffering, and many more Catholic patients were prepared to receive Holy Communion and the Sacrament of the Sick.